How To Hire Your Wedding DJ... 7 Useful Tips

Your wedding DJ has a HUGE impact on the success of your event. Since most of you will only hire a DJ 2 or 3 times in your life, you may find these tips useful...

1. Make sure you have a written contract stating the ACTUAL DJ for your event. In some cases you will meet and hire a DJ only to find out that a different DJ actually shows up at your wedding!

2. Ask for references and check them. One of the best ways to find the perfect DJ is to ask your friends for referrals. Also, you can call hotels or banquet facilities and many will have a "preferred vendor" list that will do a great job for you.

3. Have an in-person or phone conversation with the actual DJ least 3 days before your actual wedding. This allows you to make sure you all the last minute details are resolved.

4. Check on overtime and hidden fees. A percentage of 4 hour events end up requiring an extra hour or two because the guests are still having a great time. Find out this rate in advance because most DJ's require payment that night for overtime.

5. Verify the attire for your DJ! This is important to know how he or she will be dressed.

6. Ask your DJ for "off night" discounts. Often, if you have your event on a Friday night or weeknight, you can get discounts. Also, some companies will give an "early bird or afternoon" discount if you start early (which gives your DJ the opportunity to work 2 events that day). Be careful not to negotiate the rate down too much because you may demotivate your performer!

7. Find out if your DJ will help you plan the timeline of your reception. The professional DJ company will have a wedding planner form and assist you with the planning of your reception. A seperate wedding coordinator is not needed if you have a great DJ.